Former Wallabies hooker Nathan Charles reveals MND diagnosis at 37

“And, yeah, just at times quite cruel.”

Nathan Charles, who played four tests for the Wallabies including two against the All Blacks, has been diagnosed with MND. Photo / Getty Images

The former front-rower had previously overcome a significant health challenge to play rugby, having been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, a genetically inherited condition which impacts the pancreas and lungs, at 3 months old.

His family were warned he might not live past his 10th birthday, but he went on to make his Super Rugby debut for the Western Force in 2010.

He previously used his status to be a leading voice for those with cystic fibrosis and he aims to do the same for those with MND.

“I won’t say the word funny, but, you know, I was born with a life-threatening illness,” he said.

“I’ve sort of given that a red-hot crack and now this other thing comes along.

“I find it quite ironic that something else would strike me down rather than what I’ve sort of been dealing with my whole life.”

Nathan Charles spent most of his Super Rugby career representing the Western Force. Photo / Photosport

After his MND diagnosis, his thoughts turned quickly to his family.

“I felt as though this would impact them greater than it would me. So, yeah, that was my first thought,” Charles explained.

“I had a bad feeling going into that appointment and my fears were realised. It was the people around me that I felt worse for.”

The 37-year-old said he asked his doctor “how long have I got?” after discovering he was living with the condition.

“I know that every person with MND has a different journey, a different path and it affects everyone differently.

“I know there’s no cure and … your physicality, your body deteriorates and, yeah, your life cuts short.”

He said he already struggles to perform daily tasks and uses mobility aids for assistance.

Nathan Charles overcame cystic fibrosis to become a professional rugby player. Photo / Photosport

“I want to create memories. I want to do some really cool stuff … and trying to use my story to inspire, motivate.

“You’ve still got to have purpose in life … otherwise, what are you living for?”

A Go Fund Me has been set up to support the former rugby player and those closest to him are setting up a foundation in his name.

“I just want to make as many memories and opportunities happen as possible.”

Nathan Charles’ diagnosis comes months after NRL player Jai Arrow revealed he was living with the condition. Photo / Photosport

Charles played 83 times for the Western Force and twice for the Melbourne Rebels before his retirement in 2018.

Two of his test caps came against the All Blacks, including a 12-12 draw.

His diagnosis comes months after Jai Arrow immediately retired from the NRL following his MND diagnosis.